I was always raised to help out those around you. I dont knock helping out charities, but its not for me. I have family living in a third world country, a grandmother(in canada) living off of a government cheque, a sister with a young son and both her and her husband are putting themselves through college, a room mate who can never come up with their side of the rent (but is a really good friend) etc. So to answer your question for research purposes I rather donate my money to people I know.
